Autism

An estimated 1 in 36 children in the United States has autism and faces challenges that interfere with their success academically, socially, and emotionally. Helix Neuropsychiatric Center in El Segundo, California, offers treatment and education for children and adults on the autism spectrum so they can better cope with their challenges. Double board-certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist and developmental neuroscientist Gil Hoftman, MD, PhD, uses the latest treatments and his expertise in brain development to help you or your child navigate an autism diagnosis with compassion and confidence. Call the office to schedule an autism evaluation or book a consultation online today. 

What is autism?

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental and neurological disorder that affects a person’s learning skills, communication, and behaviors. People with autism (or autistic people) are considered neurodivergent. This means that their brains perceive the world differently from the neurotypical majority population. This is not always an illness or a negative thing. Autistic children, adolescents, and adults have many strengths.

Characteristics of autism are typically noticeable in children by age 2 — a key period of human development. The disorder causes difficulties with social interaction, repetitive behaviors, and communication challenges. Autism is considered a spectrum disorder because of its wide range of symptom types and severity.

Helix Neuropsychiatric Center offers support and treatment resources for children and adults who have autism.

Dr. Hoftman is highly skilled in evaluating people with autism traits to confirm a diagnosis. He also has extensive training in managing the lifelong disorder with psychotherapy, medications, and other therapeutic strategies.

When should I seek medical care for autism?

Schedule a diagnostic evaluation for your child if they show signs of autism, such as:

• Little or no eye contact
• Repetitive behaviors
• Lack of interest in objects or people
• Flat or robotic speaking tone
• Difficulty displaying emotions
• Negative reaction to routine changes
• Disinterest in imaginative play or socializing

Adults with autism experience similar symptoms, which can cause challenges at work, in relationships, and in social situations. In some cases, autism can interfere with your ability to care for yourself properly.

Dr. Hoftman provides comprehensive autism evaluations for adults and kids. He uses the latest screening tools and his advanced observational skills to identify the therapies you or your child need to be successful.

How is autism treated?

There’s no one-size-fits-all solution to managing autism and its symptoms. Helix Neuropsychiatric Center takes a patient-centered, compassionate approach to designing a long-term care plan for those who have autism.

Dr. Hoftman may recommend strategies like:

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)

CBT is a type of psychotherapy that helps you recognize unhelpful, automatic thought patterns and behaviors so you can learn how to think and act more flexibly.

With ongoing therapy, adults and children can improve their problem-solving skills and learn how to regulate emotions.

Medications

Antidepressants, antipsychotics, and other medications treat autism-related aggression, irritability, and anxiousness. When used in combination with psychotherapy, medications can improve your quality of life.

Dr. Hoftman also provides educational resources for your family members, as well as your child’s school and caregivers, so everyone learns how to support a loved one who is on the autism spectrum. 

Call Helix Neuropsychiatric Center to schedule an autism screening for yourself or your child, or book a consultation online today.